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Overview

Shapes are lightweight emphasis tools. They should guide attention, not compete with content. [insert screenshot of shape controls with fill, stroke, radius, and opacity settings]

What you can do with shapes

  • Add boxes/lines for highlights and section framing.
  • Use stroke-only shapes to mark areas without hiding content.
  • Use translucent fills for focus regions.
  • Animate shape entry to match narrated moments.
  • Layer shapes behind text to improve readability.

Before you start

  • Identify exactly what the shape should emphasize.
  • Choose subtle visual treatment first, then increase only if needed.
  • Plan layering so important UI stays visible.

Steps

  1. Insert the shape type that matches your intent.
  2. Position and size it around the target element.
  3. Set fill/stroke balance for readable emphasis.
  4. Tune opacity so the underlying UI remains understandable.
  5. Place shape in correct layer order.
  6. Add timing to show/hide the shape at the right moment.
[insert screenshot of a low-opacity rectangle highlighting one settings area]

Check your result

  • The highlighted area is obvious at normal playback speed.
  • The shape does not hide critical information.
  • Styling is consistent with other overlays in the project.

Troubleshooting

Highlight blocks important content

Reduce fill opacity, use stroke-only style, or move shape behind target elements.

Shape style looks inconsistent scene to scene

Duplicate a correctly styled shape instead of rebuilding from scratch.

Shape timing feels late

Move animation order earlier and align with narration cue.

Next

Combine related elements in Layout groups.